Apply for a Scientists and Explorers Act Licence

Anyone entering the Yukon for research purposes must obtain a Scientists and Explorers Act Licence.

COVID-19 update for the Scientists and Explorers licensing program

While we're continuing to accept applications, there will be delays in the review and comments process. There is limited capacity at reviewing agencies and Yukon First Nations as a result of COVID-19 impacts.

We will not be issuing licenses until the Yukon Chief Medical Officer of Health advises that incoming travel can resume as normal.

Allow for processing time

We recommend that you apply 3 months before research is scheduled to begin. This is in case your project needs additional licensing or permitting. Read our guidebook for more details.

Apply

Be aware of the licence requirements for the geographical area in which you'll be working. These will vary depending on your project. For help, readthe guidebook.

Contact the First Nation in whose traditional territory you'll be working. For research on the Yukon North Slope, contact the Inuvialuit. All areas of Yukon are in the traditional territories of Yukon and transboundary First Nations, or the in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region.

Provide confirmation of who you contacted at which First Nation and when.

Include any letters of approval or support in your application.

For projects within the Inuvialuit Settlement Region, you must contact (as appropriate):

Your research involves the export or transport of wildlife or wildlife products.

Your research involves work on Settlement Land. To work in an area on Yukon First Nation Settlement Land or in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region, you must obtain permission. Read about access, rights and obligations on Settlement Land. These lands are covered under the:

An interim report, reflecting the status of the project and work completed. This report is recommended. It's due 2 months after you finish fieldwork.

A final report when the project is completed. This report should detail findings and highlight the significance of the research. It's mandatory, and is due within 1 calendar year of the completion or termination of the project.

List of permitted research projects

The Arctic Institute of North America maintains a listing of all permitted research projects in Yukon. This list is in the Arctic Science and Technology Information System (ASTIS) database.